Zimbabwe: Revived Pandamatenga Marian Shrine on Victoria Falls – Bulawayo Road consecrated

Quegas Mutale – Hwange

Nestled along the busy Victoria Falls – Bulawayo Road, the site of the newly revived Marian Shrine and Mission is located in the Matetsi area, between the city of Hwange and Victoria Falls town. Historically, this location was home to an old Marian Shrine and mission that served as a spiritual hub for pilgrims and local Catholics alike.

Mary Queen of the Assumption

The recent consecration by Bishop Ncube signifies a renewed recognition of this sacred place, which is expected to be a choice stopover for motorists and pilgrims.

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The Pandamatenga Shrine has been dedicated to Mary Queen of the Assumption.

“This Mission is open so that it becomes a place of prayer. Whoever wishes should come and pray ... The Mission will serve not only the local community but also pilgrims travelling on the Victoria Falls Road. Many Catholics, including those from other dioceses, prompted the development of this mission over the years. The faithful thirsted for a place of prayer as they travelled on the Victoria Falls - Bulawayo Road,” explained Bishop Ncube.

The Bishop dedicated the new Mission for prayer and healing of physical and mental ailments.

Tombs of missionaries

The Pandamatenga Shrine also has tombs of missionaries -pioneers of evangelisation in this part of the country.

Bishop Ncube has since appointed Fr. Trust Luyando Mwembe as the acting rector and priest in charge of the new mission. Fr. Mwembe is the Dean of the new Jambezi Deanery, to which the Mary Queen of the Assumption Shrine and Mission belong.

The Hwange prelate said the revival of the Pandamatenga Mission was made possible through the support of Sacred Heart Jambezi Mission, which played a nurturing role.